Cllr Gareth Barnard, executive member for children, young people and learning, said: “The council is proud that Bracknell Forest schools consistently have one of the lowest rates of absence nationally.

“When children and young people are in school or college, they are safe, able to learn and go on to achieve to the best of their ability.

He added: "We will therefore continue to work with schools to further decrease absences and ensure our children get the education they’re entitled to.”

While West Berkshire Council's executive member for Education Cllr Dominic Boeck says the council is striving to reduce the numbers of unauthorised absences.

"Even short periods of absence can have a negative impact on outcomes"

He said: "Improving educational attainment is a priority for the council and regular attendance is important if pupils are to reach their potential.

"Non-attendance disrupts learning with research by the Department for Education finding that even short periods of absence can have a negative impact on outcomes.

"Nick Gibbs MP, the Minister for the Department for Education, has indicated that the legislation will be reviewed and we will ensure our local practices reflects any changes."